New Beer and Whisky Releases: A Match Made in Yorkshire
In a surprising turn of events, the Hunmanby-based Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery has unveiled its latest limited-edition bottling, the Filey Bay Porter Cask Special Release. This whisky, boasting a 50% abv, offers a delightful blend of flavors including orange chocolate, roasted malt, baked apples, and candied fruits. But what sets this release apart is its unique journey from cask to bottle.
The ex-PX Sherry and ex-Bourbon casks chosen for the Filey Bay Porter Cask were initially filled back in 2017. After years of maturation, the whisky from these casks was split into two distinct paths. The ex-PX casks birthed the Sherry Cask Reserve #2, while the ex-Bourbon casks were integrated into the Flagship system. But the innovation didn’t stop there.
The casks were then refilled with Wold Top Brewery’s ‘Marmalade Porter,’ resulting in the creation of Rip Curl barrel-aged beer. After 15 months, the casks were emptied once more and refilled with ex-Bourbon matured whisky from 2018. The meticulous blending of these casks culminated in the Filey Bay Porter Cask Special Release.
Whisky director Joe Clark expressed his enthusiasm for this project, stating, “We have many special cask types in our warehouse, but few as special as these that reflect our expertise as farmers, brewers, and distillers. The rich chocolatey flavors of the porter have been enhanced by our casks, while the maltiness of the porter has elevated the fruity notes of our whisky. The marriage of these two beverages is truly a harmonious one, with each complementing the other’s unique characteristics.”
Limited to just 2,000 bottles, the Filey Bay Porter Cask is priced at £80 with a tube or £78 without. Meanwhile, the Rip Curl beer, boasting an alcohol content of 8.5% vol, offers a complex interplay of fruity and roasted flavors, making it a standout addition to Wold Top’s Ebb & Flow series of beers.
For those eager to sample this innovative collaboration, Rip Curl is available for purchase online at woldtopbrewery.co.uk and select independent retailers.
The Unlikely Pairing: Whisky and Beer
The partnership between the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery and Wold Top Brewery has resulted in a truly unique offering for whisky and beer enthusiasts alike. By repurposing casks and embracing experimentation, these two establishments have showcased the artistry and creativity that define Yorkshire’s craft beverage scene.
A Taste of Innovation
With the Filey Bay Porter Cask Special Release and Rip Curl beer, consumers are treated to a sensory experience that transcends traditional boundaries. This collaboration serves as a testament to the ingenuity and passion driving the evolution of the whisky and beer industries.
